ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author first explores Ifugao local religious healing beliefs and practices. She describes the Ifugao construction of malnutrition, and how the local religion addressed the Ifugao category na-ong-ong, or extreme thinness. The author explores the practice of Christianity and Christian healing in Ifugao. Some theories of religious conversion are discussed and an assessment made of how the body can be central to the process of religious conversion and control through healing. The author examines some Christian discourses and practices which have a bearing on nutritional status among Ifugao people. Although there were numerous Christian organizations in Ifugao, she focuses on three Christian organizations: a Catholic food supplement program, an Evangelical clinic and hospital, and a Methodist church. The author draws on Christian individuals who actively pursued Christian conversion among followers of baki or who denigrated baki and the local Ifugao religion.
